15 Great TV Shows That Are Only One Season, And That's Perfect

Updated on December 6th, 2023 by Louise Everitt: This article has been refreshed with new entries and some additional insights and trivia to keep things exciting and relevant for you. We've added new content, so revisit to see what's changed and stay informed.

Selfie (2014)

A modern take on "My Fair Lady," this sitcom focuses on Eliza Dooley, a self-obsessed social media addict who enlists the help of a marketing expert to revamp her image, leading to comedic situations and unexpected lessons in personal connections.

Almost Human (2013-2014)

Set in a future where police officers are paired with android partners, the show follows a detective and his human-like android partner as they navigate crime-solving, moral dilemmas, and the evolving landscape of human-robot relationships.

The Good Guys (2010)

A comedic action series pairing an old-school, rough-and-tumble detective with a by-the-book, ambitious young detective, as they tackle small-time crimes which unwittingly lead them into larger, more dangerous conspiracies.

Limitless (2015-2016)

Continuing from the film of the same name, this series follows Brian Finch as he discovers the brain-boosting power of the NZT drug, leading him to collaborate with the FBI while uncovering the drug's mysterious origins and handling its perilous side effects.

FlashForward (2009-2010)

After the global population blacks out for two minutes and experiences visions of their future, the series follows a team of FBI agents as they investigate the phenomenon while grappling with their own flashforwards and the choices they face.

Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip (2006-2007)

Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip, created by Aaron Sorkin, is like a meteor: brief, bright, and gone too soon. The drama is a behind-the-scenes look at a fictional sketch-comedy television show, where showrunners Danny Tripp and Matt Albie navigate network politics, talent woes, and personal dramas. Bradley Whitford and Matthew Perry 's effortless camaraderie is a joy to watch, and the biting commentary on TV production is as insightful as it is entertaining – still holds up pretty well in 2023, if you ask me.

Trophy Wife (2013-2014)

Despite the somewhat misleading title, Trophy Wife is a heartwarming comedy about unconventional family dynamics. Malin Åkerman stars as Kate, a young woman who marries a man with two ex-wives and three children. The show cleverly tackles modern family issues with a healthy dose of humor and heart. The dynamic between Kate and her step-children is endearing, and the interactions with the ex-wives are consistently hilarious.

Terriers (2010)

What do you get when you pair a recovering alcoholic ex-cop and a former criminal as unlicensed private investigators? Terriers, apparently. This engaging crime dramedy is a gem of a show, rich with character development, clever storylines, and authentic emotional depth. Donal Logue and Michael Raymond-James bring the series to life with their performances as the unlikely crime-solving duo. Sadly, the show didn't survive past its first season, but its memory endures.

The River (2012)

This one's for the thrill-seekers. The River, a found-footage supernatural adventure horror series, follows the crew of a rescue mission in the Amazon Rainforest. They are seeking the famed explorer Dr. Emmet Cole who, mysteriously disappeared months before. The series expertly blends horror, mystery, and adventure, resulting in a chillingly entertaining watch. Though its singular season left many stones unturned, its limited run only serves to heighten the sense of dread and suspense.

Firefly ( 2002)

Developed by writer and director Joss Whedon, Firefly follows the ragtag crew of the spaceship Serenity as they navigate the fringes of civilization, ducking and diving through law enforcement and fellow outlaws alike. It's a marriage of the grit of the old West and the wonder of the final frontier. The cast's chemistry is electric and storylines as entertaining as they are intriguing. Despite its premature cancelation after just one season, fans worldwide cherished its unique blend of genres. Although it lives on in cult status and a subsequent movie, it remains one of those single-season wonders that sit proudly on the pedestal of "what could have been."

Freaks and Geeks (1999-2000)

Freaks and Geeks, created by Paul Feig and executive-produced by Judd Apatow, is an astoundingly heartfelt look into the awkward and unforgettable world of high school. This comedy-drama series might have only aired for one season, but it has had a significant impact on pop culture. It manages to capture the pangs of teenage life, the absurdity of adolescence, and the occasional triumphs of simply surviving. Not to mention, it served as a launchpad for several of today's A-listers, including James Franco, Seth Rogen, and Jason Segel.

My So-Called Life (1994-1995)

My So-Called Life, starring a young Claire Danes, is a timeless portrait of teenage life. The drama series tells the story of 15-year-old Angela Chase as she navigates high school, deals with her changing relationships with her parents and friends, and experiences first love. The show's candid depiction of adolescence was a breath of fresh air during its time. Despite lasting only 19 episodes, it had a profound impact on television, proving that teen dramas could be intelligent, nuanced, and emotionally resonant. Plus, it's one of the first shows to depict a gay teenager with complexity and respect.

Wonderfalls (2004)

Wonderfalls is an offbeat, one-season wonder that deserves more love. The show follows Jaye, an underachieving philosophy grad working in a Niagara Falls gift shop. One day, Jaye starts hearing inanimate animal figures talk to her, which compels her to perform good deeds that inevitably lead to unexpected outcomes. It's quirky, surreal, and filled with enough unexpected twists to keep you entertained. While it didn't quite hit the mark with ratings during its airing, the comedy-drama has since gained a devoted fanbase who cherish its 13-episode run.

The Tick (2001-2002)

Ever wished your superheroes were a bit more... well, weird? Then step right into The Tick's single season of ludicrousness. This live-action series is based on the comic book character of the same name and provides a wonderfully satirical take on superhero tropes. The Tick, a well-meaning but somewhat dimwitted superhero, takes on absurd villains in the city, aided by his trusty sidekick, Arthur. The humor is brilliantly daft, and the performances, especially Patrick Warburton as the titular Tick, are a joy to watch. Cancelled after nine episodes, The Tick continues to enjoy cult status among fans of the quirky and unusual.

Undeclared (2001-2002)

Another Judd Apatow creation, Undeclared, is a light-hearted look into the unpredictable world of college. The series captures the essence of dorm life, navigating relationships, managing parental expectations, and grappling with newfound independence. It's a roller coaster of youthful ambition, heartbreak, and keg parties. With a cast that includes Jay Baruchel, Charlie Hunnam, and Seth Rogen, the show packs in a lot of charm and humor in its 17-episode run. Although short-lived, Undeclared remains a refreshing and enduring representation of college life, even two decades later.